"Every flatterer lives at the expense of him who listens to him"

This quote by Jean de La Fontaine is a caution against the threats of flattery. Flattery is a form of manipulation that is utilized to gain favor or benefit from somebody. It is typically utilized to make someone feel great about themselves, but it can likewise be used to control someone into doing something they wouldn't normally do. The quote is saying that when somebody listens to a flatterer, they are basically enabling themselves to be taken advantage of. The flatterer is making the most of the listener's trust and utilizing it to their own advantage. The quote is a reminder to be wary of flattery and to be knowledgeable about the possible repercussions of listening to it. It is very important to be mindful of the intents of those who are flattering us and to be knowledgeable about the potential effects of listening to them.